Editorial

Lipoplasty - commonly called liposuction - may help do more than remove stubborn fat deposits to improve the appearance and contour of the body. A new study suggests the cosmetic plastic surgery may also be beneficial for a patient's physical well-being.

Scientists measured triglyceride and cholesterol levels in 322 patients undergoing liposuction and/or a tummy tuck. The majority of patients, 71 percent, had liposuction only. While triglyceride levels in patients with normal pre-operative levels were unchanged after the cosmetic procedure, those patients with elevated, at-risk levels experienced an average 43 percent reduction in triglyceride levels after surgery - about twice the effect achieved with a drug commonly prescribed to reduce triglyceride levels. The effect was similar in both men and women.

"These findings suggest that patients who are considering liposuction who have at-risk triglyceride levels may reduce their risk of developing these serious health problems, while correcting body disproportions," said the study's author. "Patients not only look better, but may be healthier too."

The study also found that liposuction may reduce white blood cell counts, which can cause inflammation and have been linked to ailments including coronary heart disease, obesity, hypertension and diabetes. On average, patients who underwent the procedure saw their white blood cells decrease by 11 percent.

During a liposuction surgery, diet-resistant fat is removed from the body through a hollow metal tube inserted into a small incision. Common areas treated during the procedure include the stomach, buttocks, hips, love handles, saddlebags, thighs, calves, ankles, breasts, back, arms and neck.

In addition to removing stubborn fat deposits, the surgery is used to improve the body's contour. Although the results of liposuction surgery are usually long-lasting, they may be affected by weight gain, aging, pregnancy and lifestyle factors

While complications from liposuction surgery are rare, it is essential for those considering the procedure to ensure their doctor is a licensed, board-certified plastic surgeon.

The mission of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) includes medical education, public education
and patient advocacy. Plastic Surgery News Briefs are summaries of current stories found through various news and magazine
outlets that relate to or mention plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures. The views expressed in these news articles do not
necessarily reflect the opinions of ASAPS, but are merely published as an educational service to our members and the general
public. For additional information on these subjects and other plastic surgery related topics, please go to
www.surgery.org

September 17, 2013 - It seems to be almost cyclical - every few months, a brand new, game-changing anti-wrinkle cream is introduced to the market, only to face lawsuits due to suggestions that the "scientific" claims made on the side of the bottle are absolute bunk.